Grantham Says Controversy Could Lead To APT Demise

The chief operating officer of Alabama Public Television has written a letter to Gov. Robert Bentley expressing concern that the controversy surrounding the firing of two top officials at Alabama Public Television could lead to the demise of the network in Alabama.

Alabama Public Television Network chief operating officer Charles Grantham said in an interview about the letter that the controversy could lead to the demise in Alabama of popular programs like ``Sesame Street'' and ``Antique Roadshow.''

The controversy surrounds the firing of Alabama Public Television director Allan Pizzato and deputy director and chief financial officer Pauline Howland.

Press Secretary Jennifer Ardis said the governor is aware of the letter and is committed to providing the best educational television for Alabama residents.